Patients can now be X-rayed using a new state-of-the-art imaging system at the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital.
This new unit was kindly funded by Rockinghorse Children’s Charity, partner charity of University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust, and their donors.
As well as supporting all paediatric dental patients requiring imaging, this replacement machine will also be used to detect bone tumours, soft tissue damage and issues related to the head and neck.
With over 800 dental X-rays needed each year, this unit will produce high quality images needed to ensure accurate diagnosis.
Darren Sander, the Lead Superintendent Radiographer at the Royal Sussex County Hospital said: “By having the latest dental X-ray equipment at The Alex, we are able to produce timely, high quality diagnostic images with a reduced radiation dose to the children of Sussex.
“This enables a child’s visit to the dentist to be not only full and comprehensive, but also quick and easy and allows the dentists and radiographers to work collaboratively to make sure the experience for the children is dedicated to them, receiving the best care possible.
“The new equipment is conveniently located next to the Orthodontic clinic which means that parents and children no longer have to go to a different department or hospital for their imaging to be performed.
“Our team of paediatric radiographers are very excited to have this new equipment that will help towards a positive patient diagnostic pathway.”
Rockinghorse supports babies, children, and young people across Sussex, raising money for lifesaving medical equipment and additional services. They are also the official fundraising arm of the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital.
Amanda Hetherington, Corporate Engagement Manager at Rockinghorse said: “It was great to see the machine in place, it will make such a difference. It means that children can have these X-rays without having to go to the adult wards, which would be very daunting during what is already a stressful time.
“The machine has its very own cuddly toy to help distract children and make it an altogether less scary experience.”